Vitamin D and UV exposure in construction workers—a randomized control trial using text messaging to promote positive behaviours

• Published in: Journal of public health (Oxford, England) Vol. 42; no. 3; pp. 594 - 601
• Main Authors: Lansdown, T C, Cowan, S, Nioi, A, Cowie, H, Wendelboe-Nelson, C, Rashid, S, Ritchie, P, Cherrie, J W
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Oxford University Press 18.08.2020
• Subjects: stages of change; construction workers; ultra-violet radiation; Vitamin D
• ISSN: 1741-3842; 1741-3850
• DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdz056

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to determine whether a text messaging intervention (supported by a smartphone application) would be effective in the promotion of sun-safe behaviours. Both excessive and insufficient exposure to ultra-violet (UV) radiation were considered. Methods A randomized control crossover trial was conducted. 112 participants from nine sites in the United Kingdom contributed to the study. There were three intervention waves, two in winter (Vitamin D-focussed) and one in summer (UV exposure-focussed). Stages of Change, Standard Erythemal (UV) Dose and assayed blood samples (Vitamin D) were employed to evaluate the effectiveness throughout the 21-day data collection periods. Results The intervention was effective in promoting positive progression in Stages of Change for Vitamin D; and this in turn was predictive of increased Vitamin D levels in participants. More limited positive findings were found with respect to UV exposure. Overall, for those in the Intervention, Vitamin D levels were significantly predicted to increase during both of the winter data collection waves. Conclusions Interventions of this type are recommended to promote healthy Vitamin-D levels in construction workers.